A ryokan is a traditional style Japanese inn. They offer great service, traditional food and the chance to sleep on the floor. A couple of pointers will avoid a spot of embarrassment. The shoes-off-at-the-entrance part is pretty easy.

It's the slippers that can be a challenge. Never, ever wear slippers on tatami , the straw mat floors in the room. And for the biggest "oops, I'm a foreigner" faux pas, make sure you don't walk around wearing the slippers that say "toilet". They are only for the toilet.

When at a ryokan, immediately change into the yukata , the Japanese robe, to look like a local. It is common to wear it anywhere in the inn, including when you sleep. The right side goes under the left side and the belt. or obi , is wrapped around the waist twice and tied in the front. Men rotate the belt so the knot is over the left buttocks. Wear it low to look real cool. A yukata is great to sleep in but be warned, when you wake the front will be wide open.

Right side first.

Belt goes around twice. Low for men, high for women.

Knot toward back for men, in front for women.

Tanzen , or coat to keep warm.

Ahh, the onsen . Arguably one of the greatest Japanese experiences, the Japanese bath can be a tricky adventure. If you remember only two Japanese characters, make sure they are the ones for male (男) and female (女). Written on the curtains at the entrance, a misreading could lead to loud screams or cheers of joy. Once inside, there are no bathing suits, underwear or bath towels. The small towel is for washing. If you want to feel like a veteran, try placing the small towel on your head while relaxing in the bath.

Many ryokan offer meals in your room. This is a fantastic and relaxing experience for the guest but some serious work for the staff. It is generally a multi-course feast that requires the staff to deliver each course for each guest in each room. Pace yourself, because it is not uncommon to be quite full with several courses to go.

After dinner, the staff will lay out your futon . The pillow is always placed either to the south or the east as lying with your head to the north or west is bad karma. In the morning, the futon is promptly folded and returned to the closet by the staff so you have room to relax in.

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